Coach service could take 180,000 cars off the road

THE new coach service launched from Terenure to Dublin Airport could potentially take 180,000 cars off the road for journeys from the southside of the city to Dublin Airport.

Coach service Dublin Express launched the new 783 route this week, which will pass through Rathgar, Rathmines, Ranelagh, Portobello, and the city centre.

The service received around €5m in funding for the new route and created 26 new jobs in the process.

Tickets for the service are priced €13 for a one-way trip and €17 for a return journey from Rathgar and Terenure, while prices drop to €12 for a one-way trip and €16 for a return journey from Ranelagh and Rathmines.

Dublin Express General Manager, Rory Fitzgerald, said: “One of the advantages of travelling to the airport with Dublin Express, compared to the standard bus service, is the convenience, speed, and frequency of our services.

“With additional legroom, increased luggage space, and all modern comforts such as free Wi-Fi and USB charging, customers can enjoy a much more comfortable, premium experience on board.”

The coach operator is currently transporting around 2 million passengers a year between Dublin city and the airport.

Mr Fitzgerald said their data shows that over “520,000 people make around 180,000 trips to Dublin Airport in the immediate areas around this route between Terenure and the city centre.”

Last week, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission blocked the sale of a car park near Dublin Airport to the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) over concerns it would lead to higher prices for consumers.

The availability of parking near Dublin Airport was a recurring issue during busy periods last year.